20 Undeniable Reasons Everyone Should Love New Hampshire

The Granite State is well-known as a tourist destination, but people who call this state home know that it has more to offer than just pretty scenery (although, let’s be honest, the views are amazing). Here are 20 tried and true reasons why we love New Hampshire.

It’s hard to think of a state with a slogan that means more than New Hampshire’s: “Live Free or Die.” Freedom comes first and foremost in the Granite State, and lawmakers and residents alike respect this essential American value.

With mountains, streams, lakes and beaches, it’s no wonder thousands of tourists flock to New Hampshire each year. But when you live here, you get to enjoy that unspoiled wilderness year round – including those special places that only the locals know about.

New Hampshire has the most representatives per capita of any state in the nation, and many politicians in New Hampshire have open door policies, welcoming their constituents to walk right in! How’s that for democracy?

New Hampshire is so dotted with waterways that there’s a whole area named for them: the lakes region. Whether you like swimming, boating or just relaxing on shore, you’re sure to find the lake that’s right for you.

New Hampshire has 48 peaks that are higher than 4,000 feet, including Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast at 6,288 feet. Hike it, or take the auto road to the top and just tell your friends you climbed!

New Hampshire was one of the first places settled in the colonies, and it has a long and legendary history. It’s said that the dreaded pirate Blackbeard hid his loot on the Isle of Shoals, a series of rocky islands just off the New Hampshire coast. Today, you can sail out for the day and try to find your own treasure.

After all that adventuring, you’ll deserve a sweet treat. Whether you’re putting it on ice cream, pancakes or eating it alone, an indulgence from your local sugar shack is the perfect antidote to the winter blues.

The savings don’t end at the outlets! In New Hampshire, you don’t need to worry about adding 5-10% to your bill, since the Granite State is one of just 5 states without a sales tax. Shop on, my friends, shop on.

If you’re a real New Hampshire resident, you’ll know how to pronounce that. But even if you don’t, you’ll love this scenic drive that winds 56 miles through the heart of the White Mountain National Forest. Plan plenty of time to stop and enjoy waterfalls, outlooks and natural water slides.